What happens when you can't keep up

[rn2bnwi, BSN, RN]

Im an agency cna and I had a crazy night last night. I had about 18 to 20 clients that all needed 3 round checks and changed about every time and none were able to help with rolling ect..... I also had a fall risk that was time monopolizing. I tried as hard has I could but I didn't finish second rounds until 4:30 am and that was with the floats help. the float was was floating between 4 halls I believe and the other hall that is as heavy also had an agency and they were concerned about client care so they spent a fair amount of time over there . they said it was ridiculous to put two agency on the two heaviest halls but Im just in shock that people are able to get those cares done on schedule. I have worked this exact hall before and it went more on schedule so maybe last night was rouger than usual but Its not a hall where things 'change up a lot' since people are so impaired. I have been SOOOO spolied lately with most patients being able to cooperate with rolling or at least understand the concept ROlling dead weight bymyself is just backbreaking. the most upsetting thing of all for the night was i turned a lady (who has eaten in over a month so HIGH RISK) but I did not change her leg or on the pillows and she had a stage one pressure starting. I just left feeling like a failure tonight .... so frustrating.

[caliotter3]

When I worked as a CNA we did this on our own and when I worked as a nurse in LTC facilities, I always assigned my CNAs this way: two CNAs work together as a team. Makes for a much quicker, efficient, and easier night for all. Two people working as a team can get it done, done correctly, and you have more time to catch your breath. Suggest you make this suggestion to your charge nurse. If the nurses don't pick up on this idea, then there is nothing to stop you from teaming up with another CNA and doing both assignments together. Most of the time, my charge nurses said they didn't care how we did it, as long as the work was done and the call bells answered. HTH